In a surprise move, the ruling Awami League on Monday night
nominated her for the post.

It is an unique moment in Bangladesh's
history with women holding the positions of Prime Minister, Leader of the
Opposition, Deputy Leader of Parliament, several key ministers and now the
Speaker of Parliament.

The speakers of Indian and Pakistani parliament at
the moment are also women.

Chaudhury entered Parliament, after a
brilliant academic career, for the first time as an MP from one of the seats
reserved for women.

This is the first time Bangladesh has a Speaker
elected from one of reserved seats for women.

Now she has to relinquish
her ministerial position.

The Speaker’s office in Parliament had been
lying vacant since former Speaker Abdul Hamid was sworn-in as President on Apr
24.

Deputy Speaker Ali became the acting Speaker when Hamid took over as
Acting President on Mar 14.